Q. How often should I see a dentist?

A. The American Dental Association (ADA) guidelines recommend visiting a dentist at least twice a year for a check-up and professional cleaning. Our office also recommends a minimum of two visits per year.

Q. What should I expect during my appointment?

A. One of our team members will compile your medical and dental history during your first visit. We will then examine your teeth and gums, screen you for oral cancer, take low-radiation, digital X-rays of your teeth as needed and complete a TMJ (temporomandibular or jaw joint) exam. After we review your dental profile, we will discuss these findings with you. If treatment such as a root canal (endodontics), braces (orthodontics) or oral surgery is needed, we will plan to treat you in our office or refer you to a specialist. We will discuss your options for treatment and fee payment and help you determine the best plan to fit your needs.

During regular follow-up visits, we will examine your teeth and gums, screen you for oral cancer, clean your teeth and make plans for treatment, as needed. We will discuss any pain or problems you may be experiencing and answer any questions you may have.

Q. What does “painless dentistry” mean?

A. Painless dentistry is a means of ensuring your total experience in our office is as stress-free and pain-free as possible. We will discuss treatment options that may require no local anesthetic and whenever possible, alleviate pain by the means most comfortable to you.

Q. What if I have an emergency?

A. Please call our office as soon as you determine that you have a dental emergency. We will be glad to work you in to our schedule if you have a dental emergency during regular business hours. After hours, over the weekend and during holidays, please still give us a call. We transfer our line to a cell phone so someone is always available to take your call.

Q. Are payment plans available for my dental treatment?

A. Yes. We accept many types of dental insurance and will process your claim for you upon receipt of your co-payment. We offer a no interest payment plan and also accept most major credit cards. Several different payment options are available depending on each person's unique situation. Please ask us about which option.

Q. Can the dentist whiten my teeth?

A. We offer professional take-home teeth whitening. It may be used overnight while you are sleeping or during the day. We take impressions of your teeth and create custom fitting trays for your mouth. Each time you whiten, you will place a small amount of whitening gel in the tray and wear it overnight or for a few hours during the day.
NiteWhite ACP is our product of choice when it comes to whitening. It is more effective than over-the-counter whitening strips. Most patients achieve their desired whitening results within two weeks. Along with whitening your teeth, the active ingredients also rebuilds enamel for a stronger, healthier smile that stays whiter longer.

Q. What if I have a gap in my teeth, a chipped tooth or teeth that do not respond to normal whitening methods?

A. We have many different procedures that can help these problems. Porcelain veneers are designed to look like your natural teeth and are individually and permanently attached to the fronts of your existing teeth. Veneers can be positioned to close gaps. Bonding utilizes a composite material made of plastic to fill in areas of your teeth and correct chipping and shape problems. Both porcelain veneers and bonding are color-matched to the rest of your teeth.